Help! My Child Doesn’t Like Reading – And What You Can Do About It
Are you worried your child doesn’t like reading? You’re not alone.
In November 2024, the National Literacy Trust published new research that revealed a worrying trend: children and young people’s enjoyment of reading is in decline. Their Annual Literacy Survey 2024, which surveyed over 76,000 UK children and teens, found that only 1 in 3 (34.6%) 8 to 18-year-olds enjoy reading in their free time.
As a lifelong bookworm who grew up immersed in the worlds of Tom Sawyer, Lyra Belacqua, and Bilbo Baggins, it’s hard to imagine a childhood devoid of the adventures and lessons woven into those pages.
Why don’t children like reading anymore?
There’s no single reason. But here are a few factors thought to be contributing to this shift:
- School pressures and curriculum demands
In many classrooms today, reading is treated as a task to be ticked off. With so much focus on tests and measurable outcomes, free reading often gets sidelined, making it feel more like homework than a hobby. - Lack of access to books at home
According to the National Literacy Trust, 1 in 12 children aged 8–18 don’t own a book, and that number rises to 1 in 8 among disadvantaged children. Children who have their own books at home are more likely to enjoy reading and develop stronger literacy skills. - Technology competes for attention
Screens are everywhere. Games, videos, and apps offer instant gratification, and while tech can support literacy in the right context, it’s also a major distraction from books.
How can I help my child enjoy reading?
If your child doesn’t like reading, don’t panic. Here are five simple, research-backed strategies to help them reconnect with books and build a lifelong love of reading.
Let them choose what they read
One of the most effective ways to get kids to read is to let them pick their own books. Whether it’s graphic novels, fact books, comics or magazines—choice boosts motivation. Take a trip to the library or bookshop and follow their lead.
📚 Top tip: Even if their choices seem “too easy” or not what you’d pick, interest trumps reading level when it comes to developing good habits.
Offer high-quality, engaging books
Children are more likely to stay interested when they have access to well-written stories, diverse characters, and beautiful illustrations. Quality literature also supports vocabulary growth and comprehension.
📖 Look for books that:
- are age-appropriate but emotionally rich
- are culturally diverse and inclusive
- include lots of interesting language
Create a Reading-Friendly Environment at Home
You don’t need a full library—just make books easy to find and grab. Even a cosy reading corner can make a big difference.
🛋 Try:
- leaving books in baskets, by the bed, or in the car
- rotating titles regularly to keep interest high
- displaying covers face-out to attract attention
Read together—even with older children
Reading aloud is powerful. It builds connection, increases comprehension, and makes reading feel fun again. Even tweens and teens benefit from shared reading experiences.
👪 Ideas:
- Take turns reading chapters
- Start a family reading night
- Listen to audiobooks together on car journey
Talk about books
Ask questions, share your thoughts, and be curious. Talking about stories helps children engage more deeply and makes reading a shared experience instead of a solitary task.
Final Thoughts: rekindling a love of reading
If your child doesn’t like reading right now, don’t give up. The key is to remove pressure, make reading relevant, and connect it to joy. The right book, at the right time, can change everything.
And remember: you are your child’s best reading role model. Let them see you reading, talk about books you love, and make stories part of family life.